The Senate has defended the newly passed State Police Bill, saying it contains constitutional safeguards allowing federal police to step in during cases of electoral intimidation, serious human rights violations or threats to national security. The statement comes amid concerns that governors could weaponise state police politically.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said 84 of 109 senators (77%) backed the Constitution (Alteration) (State Police) Bill, 2026, calling it evidence of bipartisan support.
Under the bill, federal police retain responsibility for federal institutions, the FCT, counter-terrorism, cybercrime, border security and interstate crime, while state police handle local law enforcement and public order. Federal intervention would be limited to exceptional situations: breakdown of public order, incapacity of state police, serious rights abuses, electoral intimidation, or major national security threats.
To curb gubernatorial abuse, commissioner nominations require National Police Council recommendation and two-thirds approval from state assemblies, while an independent State Police Service Commission, free of governors’ control, would regulate operations. Bamidele says the bill followed extensive consultations and 2025 public hearings across all six geopolitical zones and denies it was politically motivated.
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